13 August 2026

Design unveiled: Australia’s first purpose-built museum of Islamic art

The new Museum of Islamic Art Australia will be an “intercultural space” where every visitor, regardless of faith or background, will be able to see themselves reflected in Australia’s shared story. With artists and local communities at the centre of the vision, ARM’s design resonated deeply with the audience of more than 400 guests when it was revealed by by director Mark Raggatt and principal Joshua Morrin at the inaugural MIAA gala dinner.

The design found its mark with prominent Australians including artist Khaled Sabsabi and architect Belqis Youssofzay, businessman and academic Talal Yassine, culinary personality Amina Elshafei, and Australia’s special envoy to combat Islamophobia, Aftab Malik.

“It’s iconic, it’s Islamic, it’s Western Sydney, it’s us and it’s beautiful.”
—Professor Talal Yassine, Salaam Group and Western Sydney University

“The design is phenomenal, it exceeded my expectations.”
—Amina Elshafei, culinary personality

“The museum is a future world-class cultural landmark for both Western Sydney and Australia.”
—Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC Governor of New South Wales

Intended to make the building itself “a work of art” rather than merely a container for art, the design centres around a tranquil courtyard oasis inspired by traditional Islamic gardens, creating a welcoming communal heart for the complex.

A sacred gallery space provides visitors with opportunities for contemplation, while intricate geometric ornamentation draws inspiration from traditional muqarnas architecture and the richly embroidered Kiswah covering of the Kaaba. There will be a dedicated children’s gallery, educational spaces and exhibition areas.

Professor Renée Leon PSM, vice-chancellor and president of Charles Sturt University, congratulated the Islamic Sciences and Research Academy and the Museum of Islamic Art Australia for bringing the ambitious project to its architectural milestone. Art Gallery of NSW director Maude Page embraced the new museum as a welcome addition to Sydney’s vibrant cultural landscape.

For the Islamic Sciences and Research Academy’s founding director, Professor Mehmet Ozalp, the museum represents the next chapter in building institutions that contribute positively to Australia’s multicultural success.

“It is a national institution where Australians of every background will discover the artistic, scientific and cultural achievements of Islamic civilisation,” said Professor Ozalp.

Scheduled to open in 2029, the museum has secured over 80% per cent of the funding required for construction. Governments, philanthropists and community supporters are invited to help realise the final stage of the vision, with naming rights available for the museum’s four principal galleries.